The St. Joseph of the Pines' Guild brought an early bit of Christmas cheer to residents of the St. Joseph's Heath Center.

Kindergarteners and choir members from Pope John Paul II Catholic School recently helped Santa deliver gifts to residents of St. Joseph's Health Center. In addition, residents and associates alike were treated to a medley of carols.

"It was a wonderful treat for our residents to receive an early visit from Santa," says Petie Graeter, Guild president. "The sounds of children's laughter, combined with Christmas carols echoing through the halls of the Health Center, really put both our residents and staff in the Christmas spirit."

Susie Buchanan, director of community relations for St. Joseph of the Pines agrees.

"The intergenerational relationship between residents and children is a beautiful thing to see," she says. "The children have been learning about good manners in school. They have been practicing shaking hands while looking people straight in the eye. I got to witness this firsthand and saw the pleasure in our residents' faces and a twinkle in their eye."

St. Joseph of the Pines often partners with Pope John Paul II Catholic School for events and activities.

"We're grateful for the opportunity to spread some Christmas cheer around the community," says kindergarten teacher Heather Chauret. "We always enjoy visiting with the residents of St. Joseph's. In addition to singing and delivering gifts to residents of the Health Center, we also help the Easter Bunny. Our visits to the residents of St. Joseph of the Pines lead to much discussion back in the classroom."

St. Joseph of the Pines, a member of Catholic Health East, is sponsored by the Sisters of Providence and includes Belle Meade, Pine Knoll, the Coventry, the Health Center, Therapy Village, L.I.F.E., Home Care, and Providence Place communities.